Patrik Laine sets high standards for himself after Habs trade

By ARJUN B

Modified Aug 20, 2024 02:44 GMT

Patrik Laine has set high expectations for himself following his trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Montreal Canadiens on Monday.

Despite having two years remaining on his lucrative $34.8 million contract, Laine requested a trade from Columbus. The Blue Jackets also traded a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL draft to the Canadiens in exchange for defenseman Jordan Harris.

Now, Laine is determined to make a significant impact with the Canadiens (via NHL.com):

“I don’t want to come back as a 30-goal-scorer. I want to come back as a 40, 50- [goal-scorer]. I’ve done that previously and it's not by accident,” Laine said.

His said his primary focus is on helping the team win, regardless of his individual goal tally:

“But it’s not just all about that. I want to come in and do whatever it takes to contribute to the team and help the team win, whether it’s me scoring 50 or scoring 20, as long as the team wins. I’m getting to that age, I’m not 19 years old anymore. I just want to win,” he added.

Last season, Laine suffered a broken clavicle injury which kept him sidelined from Dec. 14 for the Blue Jackets. He also received help from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and was given the clear on July 26.

“There’s always going to be stuff happening to you, a lot of adversity, a lot of good things and it’s how to handle that. I always wasn’t the best doing that,” Laine said.

The Finnish international believes that he has learned to navigate through tough times and maintain a positive perspective. With a renewed mindset and excitement for the future, Laine is eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that await him in Montreal.

Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes on signing Patrik Laine

Canadiens GM Kent Hughes said the success of the signing should not be judged solely on Patrik Laine's goal totals. He explained that Laine's contributions to the team will be measured in more ways than just scoring goals (via NHL.com):

"If you come here ready to contribute to this team, to do everything in your power to help us get to a place, and if that’s the opportunity that you’re looking for, then say no more. That’s what I want to hear from you," Hughes said.

Ultimately, Hughes made clear that Patrik Laine's overall contribution to the Canadiens, not just his scoring, will determine if the signing is a success.

How do you think Patrik Laine will fare with the Montreal Canadiens next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.